Domestic Violence Survivors Support Each Other in LRC-KJHAM Community Meetings

The hot afternoon sun in Bandarharjo, Semarang, did not sap the spirit of members who attended the routine community meeting held by LRC-KJHAM (Gender Justice and Human Rights) one of MAMPU partners. The community named themselves Harapan Kita (Our Hope) group.

The group meeting was in Ngatini’s house, one of the members. The house looked crowded that day with volunteers who prepared for the discussion.

The event was opened by LRC-KJHAM. Following that, the 25 participants in attendance were invited to discuss their personal experiences in the dissemination of information on human rights, especially women’s rights, in the efforts to fight sexual and domestic violence.

Emilia Suci Suborini, commonly known as Suborini, started the session by sharing her experiences of advocating to her neighbours who were victims of domestic violence. At first, Suborini faced a lot of rejection and people looking down on her. But her ability to communicate succeeded in persuading victims’ husbands and families to open up to her.

“There are certainly barriers to assisting victims, especially with me not being an government official or a public figure. If you want to be accepted, you should use agood humoured approach, talking gently but firmly, and enter into an honest dialogue,” explained Suborini.

Ngatini, a woman with bitter past experience of domestic violence, shared her story.

“I did not want to sink into the mud, so—under pressure—I tried to get back on my feet and air my grievances to the group. After I felt confident and strong again, I communicated with my husband and asked him what the best way to continue our domestic life was. My husband finally understood and there was a change. In fact, now we can share our household duties,” said Ngatini.

Pujiwati also shared her story; after drawing strength from the group and her problem was assisted with the help of LRC-KJHAM, she was able to pull herself up, be active in the group, and support other victims.

“Through this group, I empowered myself. Now through this group I want to assist other victims of violence, so they would be confident and strong again,” said Pujiwati.

According to Dian Puspitasari from LRC-KJHAM, these regular meetings like this group, supported by the MAMPU Program, are extremely beneficial as each member can share experiences of strengthening themselves and giving assistance to other victims. In addition, another benefit of this activity is that it may enable victims to self-actualization and increase their abilities.